Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that feels effortlessly elegant yet incredibly satisfying, this Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe takes simple, fresh ingredients and transforms them into a beautifully golden, tender cod fillet topped with a zingy, buttery lemon sauce that brightens every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special dinner, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe proves that sometimes fewer ingredients lead to the most delicious results. Each component is essential—not just in flavor but in creating the perfect texture and appearance that make this dish truly shine.

• 7 oz fresh cod fillets: The star of the dish, fresh cod offers a flaky, tender texture that soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural taste of the cod without overpowering it.
• 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour: Helps achieve that irresistibly crispy golden crust when seared.
• 1 tbsp. olive oil: Used for cooking the fish gently while adding a fruity layer of flavor.
• 1 1/2 tbsp. butter (salted): Creates a luscious base for the lemon butter sauce and adds richness to the pan sauce.
• 2 tsp. lemon juice: The acidity cuts through the butter, adding brightness and a hint of freshness.
• 1/4 tsp. sugar: Balances the tartness of the lemon, creating a mellow, rounded sauce.

How to Make Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Cod

Begin by rinsing the cod fillets under cold water to remove any surface impurities, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides and let the fillets rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the seasoning penetrate while drawing out excess moisture.

Step 2: Dredge the Fillets in Flour

After the rest, pat the cod dry again. Even dryness is key to achieving a crisp crust. Coat each piece evenly in all-purpose flour, then give a gentle shake to remove any excess flour. This thin layer traps moisture inside and crisps up beautifully during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Cod Skin-Side Down

Heat the olive oil in a skillet, then carefully place the cod fillets skin-side down before switching the heat on. Cooking on low heat prevents burning and gently renders the skin crispy while keeping the fish tender. Let the fish cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until it turns a luscious golden brown. Once cooked, blot away any excess oil using a paper towel for a clean finish.

Step 4: Flip and Baste with Butter

Gently flip the cod fillets and add the butter to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly to pool the melted butter and spoon it over the fish several times. This not only infuses flavor but also keeps the fillets moist and shiny. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the fish is fully cooked and succulent.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

With the fish removed from the pan, add the lemon juice and sugar to the leftover butter and juices. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the sauce emulsifies into a tangy, buttery glaze. This sauce is the essence of charm in this Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe—bright, rich, and irresistible.

Step 6: Plate and Drizzle

Arrange the cod fillets skin-side up on your plate to showcase the crispy, golden crust. Generously spoon the lemon butter sauce over each fillet, allowing it to cascade down the sides. The presentation is simple but elegant—just like this whole dish.

How to Serve Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a lovely pop of green and a mild herbaceous note, complementing the lemon butter sauce perfectly. Thin lemon slices or a wedge on the side invite your guests to add extra citrus if desired—a small touch that makes a big difference.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with vibrant, seasonal vegetables. Think sautéed spinach, steamed baby potatoes, or even roasted carrots for a splash of color and a contrast in texture that rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cod atop a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a light quinoa salad to elevate the dish for special occasions. For casual dinners, serve it family-style on a large platter with lemon wedges and parsley scattered liberally—inviting everyone to dig right in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked cod and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture of the fish and the freshness of the lemon butter sauce for up to two days.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze the raw cod fillets before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Avoid freezing cooked fish with sauce, as texture and flavor can suffer upon thawing.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe, gently warm the fish in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. Warm the sauce separately on the stovetop, stirring gently to bring it back to life without separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to prevent sogginess and ensure a perfect sear.

What can I substitute if I don’t have lemon juice?

Lime juice can be a good substitute, offering a similar tangy brightness. If you want a less acidic option, a splash of white wine vinegar works in a pinch.

Why do I need to dredge the cod in flour?

The flour coating helps to create a golden crust, adding a delightful texture contrast that locks in moisture and keeps the fish tender inside.

Can I make the lemon butter sauce without sugar?

Yes, but the sugar balances the acidity of the lemon juice beautifully. Without it, the sauce might taste a little sharper—consider a pinch of honey as an alternative if you want some sweetness.

What’s the best way to tell when the cod is cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Cooking times can vary slightly, but a gentle touch and watching for that golden crust signal you’re right on track.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe, you’ll find it’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve your guests with pride. So gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and celebrate the delicious magic that happens when fresh cod meets a zesty, buttery sauce.

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